Why We Garden

Gardeners tend to be optimistic. The simple act of planting a tree shows vision, creativity and yes, even hope. Sowing seeds is an act of faith, a fundamental belief in the natural world. One knows that with fertile soil, water and light, anything is possible. Gardens of contentment are borne in cities and in the country, in grand designs and in simple windowsills. The fact is, we garden because it makes us feel good.Frederick Law Olmsted, the landscape architect who was the creative force behind the design of New York's Central Park observed that viewing a scene in nature "employs the mind without fatigue and yet exercises it, tranquilizes it and yet enlivens it; and thus, through the influence of the mind over the body, gives the effect of refreshing rest."This observation could be judged to be more true today than when Mr. Olmsted was quoted back in 1865. In a day and age when work has become more stressful than ever, where daily lives are played out in an environment with higher levels of noise, crime and intensity, it's understandable that people feel a general fatigue. Even work here at the nursery takes on an almost frenetic pace during the spring season. Where do we turn for relief? A quiet greenhouse or sales yard in the early morning hours. Like you, we turn to the garden...we connect with nature. Whether it is for five minutes or hours spent transplanting seedlings, we emerge refreshed, rejuvenated and somehow inspired.There is something to be said for stopping to take notice of the world around you. It may seem trite, but taking the time to stop and smell the roses can lead to better health, a sharper mind and reduced stress. While we are force fed advice on how we should reduce our fat intake, increase our non-impact aerobic workouts, and oh, yeah....spend more quality time with the children, we'd like to present an alternative available right in your own backyard.The Warm-up-Start by taking in the morning air. Pulling weeds can be your opening stretching exercise. Comb your landscape and lawn for any and all invaders. Take your time, enjoy whatever is sprouting. Your neighbors will think you are strange, but they'll be amazed by your weed free (all-organic, by the way) garden.20-minutes to a leaner, greener you!In the time it takes to rake your yard, or mow your lawn you can achieve quite an enjoyable aerobic workout. The great part is, you feel better from the results you've achieved, and from the physical activity that goes into it-a natural high!A lush, green lawn, an exquisite flower, the sight of a cardinal...these acts of nature that make us feel good. They lift the spirits and improve people's general feeling of well being. A garden can be just the right medicine for what ails you.Gardening is a great opportunity to connect with yourself, your natural environment, and your inner creativity and self-expression-and it's an activity you can enjoy as a family. Tend your garden daily. Planting the seeds for tomorrow's blooms could just improve your health at the same time!